What are Direct Payments?
Direct Payments are where we provide money for you to arrange your own care and support, instead of us providing a service for you.
Direct Payments are not taxable and do not affect your social security benefits.
Can I have Direct Payments?
You can have Direct Payments if your child is disabled and we have agreed that you need a service from us.
If you are disabled and aged 16-17 you can have the money paid direct to you.
There is a separate scheme for vulnerable adults.
What are the advantages of Direct Payments?
Flexibility and Choice – you will be able to have more flexible support that meets your particular needs and circumstances.
Control – as a young person or parent you will have more control over:
- when you get your support
- how you get your support
- who provides your support
Do I have to have Direct Payments?
No. You can have a service from Nottinghamshire County Council if you prefer.
If you have Direct Payments you can stop them at any time and go back to receiving a service direct from Nottinghamshire County Council.
What can I use a Direct Payment for?
You can use Direct Payments to pay towards towards support and equipment that we have agreed you need following an assessment. For example home care, befriender or short breaks services.
What am I responsible for?
You are responsible for:
- arranging the support you need
- sorting out any problems with the support and who provides it
- recording and showing the way you use the money
- spend the money only in ways that keep your child safe and well.
If you use the money to employ your own staff:
- you have the legal responsibilities of an employer
- the staff you employ report directly to you.
For more information about using direct payments to employ staff see the Department of Health website.
If you have a contract with an agency, the agency will be accountable to you, not to Nottinghamshire County Council.
Can I get any help with my Direct Payments?
There is a range of organisations that can offer independent advice and help with your direct payments. See our direct payments support services page for more information.
How do I get Direct Payments?
When you have had an assessment, talk to your Social Worker about having Direct Payments, rather than us providing the service.
What happens if I do have Direct Payments?
Your Social Worker will tell you how much money you have available over a year.
You will need to set up a separate bank account for the Direct Payments to be paid into.
Direct Payments are paid to you in advance of when you need them (you don't spend money and then claim it back).
Reviewing your support
Your Social Worker will stay in touch to make sure that the Direct Payments are working well and still meeting your needs. Your Direct Payments will be reviewed every year.
